Lithuania is beautiful from all angles – and observation towers are a good way to take in breathtaking vistas of the country.
Here are eight of them, ranging from 15 to 45 metres, each a worthwhile destination for a hike or a ride.
Birštonas Observation Tower, 45 m
The Birštonas Observation Tower has a platform at 45 metres, but the height of the entire tower is 55 metres. There are six resting places for those who run out of energy while climbing the tower. The tower is unique because of the small windows in its wooden exterior to observe the panoramic landscape while making the climb. Note that there is no lift in the tower and its opening hours vary according to sunrise and sunset. The nearest car park is less than 10 minutes away.
Mindūnai Observation Tower, 36 m
The 36-metre observation tower in Labanoras Regional Park is one of the highest in Lithuania. To reach the top, one has to climb 214 steps. The stairway is wide and lined with comfortable handrails. From the top, you can enjoy views of Lake Siesartis and its many peninsulas, as well as the Lakajai Landscape Reservation. The site is accessible by car and by bicycle, and there is a Western Blue Walking and Cycling Trail near the forest.
Anykščių Šilelis Treetop Trail Observation Tower, 35 m
This is the first treetop walkway in the Baltic states. It is about 300 metres long and rises up to a height of 21 metres. More adventurous visitors can climb even higher – up to the 35-metre tower for a view of Anykščių Šilelis, the bends of the Šventoji River and the plains. Adjacent to the trail is an information centre with an exposition about the fauna and flora of Anykščių Šilelis. The tower is equipped with an elevator.
Sartai Lake Tower, 33 m
The Sartai Lake Observation Tower is located in the village of Baršėnai, Rokiškis District, in the Sartai Regional Park. The Sartai Lake Tower is 33 metres high. After climbing up the metal steps, you can see the landscape of the Sartai Regional Park, formed by glaciers many thousands of years ago, and the picturesque panorama of Lake Sartai. The tower can be visited from 09:00 to 22:00.
Kirkilai Observation Tower, 30 m
The tower is almost 32 metres high and has a special viewing platform at 30 metres. On the ground floor, there is an amphitheatre for gatherings, small events or just hanging out. The views from the platform are breathtaking, with 30 water-filled sinkholes, known as the lakes of the Kirkilai Reservation. Under certain conditions, they turn different colours in summer.
Merkinė Observation Tower, 26 m
The Merkinė Observation Tower is located on the bank of the Nemunas River, surrounded by a pine forest. The tower seems to disappear into the forest: the size and colour of its pillars are reminiscent of the surrounding trees. The observation platforms are at 15 and 25 metres, irregularly shaped and resemble stylised pine trees. The platforms are accessed by a staircase winding between the pillars, like a forest path. From the tower, visitors can also admire the view of the town of Merkinė. Although most of it is hidden behind trees, one can see the 17th-century Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, the spire of the regional museum, and the meadows of the Merkys Valley in the distance. The most beautiful views from the tower are in the evening.
Zarasai Observation Ring, 17 m
The circling ramp of this unique object has a diameter of 34 metres. The 100-metre-long walkway offers an enchanting panorama of Lake Zarasai. There is also a cultural space, the Stone Sculpture Park. The ring moves slightly, so first-time tourists will have to overcome some trepidation. Safety is ensured by comfortable handrails that prevent loss of balance, and the ring is illuminated in the evening. The observation ring is free to walk around and there are no restrictions on visiting hours. It is also easy to find and can be seen as soon as you enter Zarasai town.
Meteliai Observation Tower, 15 m
In the southern part of the village of Meteliai stands a 15-metre-tall observation tower. From the top, you can enjoy a spectacular view of Lake Metelis, the village, the Kimsinė meadow and a narrow stretch of Lake Dusia. During the summer, flocks of mute swans and black diving birds, wild boar, can be seen in the bay of Lake Metelis. In its structure, the wood and metal tower resembles a twisted reed foot.
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